What Is a Varsity Jacket? Complete Guide for 2026
8 Things To Consider When Buying Custom Patches
January 12, 2023
What once started as outerwear for high school seniors and athletes, the stylish varsity jackets are trending high these days, dominating the street style for men and women. It’s a bomber jacket variation available in several styles and materials and is a perfect staple to grab when quick layering decisions need to be made. This blog will lay down the facts to help you learn what is varsity jacket, what its types are, and how can you style it.
What Is Varsity Jacket
Answering the most basic question of what is varsity jacket, we can say that it is distinguished by its round ribbed collar, elasticized hem, and button-through front rather than a zip. Varsity jackets, interchangeably known as "lettermen" or "baseball jackets," are traditionally made of wool with a round neck collar and occasionally with sleeves in a contrasting color or material. Quite often, the ribbed cuffs and collars are made with contrasting color stripes. It is a casual outerwear that is both comfortable and fashionable. They are created with materials including polyester, wool, satin, nylon, and leather. Varsity jackets are an unparalleled fusion of fashion, style, and warmth in fall, winter, or the chilly spring days.
Origin Of Varsity Jacket
The iconic varsity jacket's history dates back to 1865. The "letterman" sweaters, a part of Harvard's uniform, were gray flannel pullovers with a big "H" stitched on the front. In 1930, the "varsity jacket" was well-known, and all athletes at various schools (whether in high school or college) started wearing them. By then, high schools and all other American institutions had embraced this practice, comprising of all Ivy League universities, including Harvard, Yale, University of Pennsylvania, Princeton, Columbia, Brown, Dartmouth College, and Cornell. In the mid-1980s, cardigans replaced pullovers, shifting the letter from the center to the left.
Importance Of Varsity Jacket
A varsity jacket's significance comes from its connection with its owner. The Varsity or Letterman jackets of high school grads are like awards. Whether you win a letter in sports, academics, or extracurricular, it reflects your growth. Initially reserved only for athletes, non-athletic groups now wear varsity jackets. In terms of fashion, the jacket’s fancy colors, and details, such as embroidery, contrasting sleeves, and snap buttons, make it a snazzy outerwear, reflecting your sartorial sensibility. From celebrities, influencers, street fashion icons, and sports stars, everyone is donning the varsity jacket nowadays.
Various Styles Of Varsity Jackets
Varsity Jackets are classified by the components utilized in their manufacture. The three most common material combinations for these jackets are as follows:
LEATHER SLEEVE/WOOL BODY
Choose a leather sleeve/wool body varsity jacket for a highly fashionable and eye-catching look. Superior quality wool is used for the body, and leather is used for the sleeves. For a contrasting appearance, wool and leather typically have different colors. It is the ideal clothing choice to stay warm in the late fall or mild winter.
ALL LEATHER
The all-leather varsity jacket has sleeves sewn in. it is available in ready to wear option, or you can get it customized in the specific type of leather that you want. Genuine cowhide is the most popular type of leather used in varsity jackets, not just because it is readily available and affordable but also because it is robust, resilient, and water- and dirt-resistant. It provides excellent defense against cold.
ALL WOOL
Varsity jackets made of premium, fluffy, and silky wool or fleece are typical for casual clothing. They are lightweight and cozy to wear all year long. The wool blend typically used is 80% wool and 20% nylon. The sleeve and front pockets are made using cotton and elastic thread. Three pockets are usually present in these jackets. The woolen category includes set-in Sleeves, raglan Sleeves, knit collars, or byron collars. Apart from these, nylon, polyester, satin, and canvas varsity jackets are also highly popular.
Letterman Jacket Vs. Varsity Jacket
A letterman jacket and a varsity jacket seem identical at first glance, even the names can be used interchangeably. But they have certain differences. To know what is varsity jacket and how it differs from a letterman jacket, remember that the former is worn by members of university sports teams while the latter is for high school seniors. Despite having different purposes, they both have leather sleeves with ribbed collars and a regular length (one has a letter on the front and the name of a sports team on the back). Apart from getting one at school, you buy a varsity jacket for fashion as well. In that situation, varsity and letterman jackets are similar.
Average Cost Of a Letterman Jacket
A high school letterman jacket typically costs $350-$450. The price is also affected by what materials are used. The price of your jacket depends on the accessories you choose. The jacket's cost will rise as you add more and choose more colors.
Style Tips For Varsity Jackets
Styling varsity or letterman jackets has evolved over time due to the introduction of these jackets in various designs, hues, and prints, and also the dynamic fashion trends. They are now high-fashion items that everyone may purchase. Here are some awesome varsity jacket designs and tips on how to style them.
Varsity Jacket In Dark Hues
Get this jacket from Anything Chenille
If you want your look to stand out, go for solid hues and jackets in your school's colors, such as this black and burnt orange varsity jacket by Anything Chenille. Always try to keep your ensemble in balance; if one piece is dark, the other must be neutral or light-colored. For instance, wear this varsity jacket over a white t-shirt and a pair of khakis and you will surely steal the limelight.
Navy And White Jacket
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This varsity jacket, a relaxed alternative introduced in a navy and white combination, is ideal for your informal events. Add a black shirt and a pair of blue ripped jeans to finish the appearance. Simple as that!
Style With A Satin Jacket
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Bedazzle everyone with this varsity jacket in satin from Anything Chenille. The go-to ensemble for when you need to feel more comfortable in what you're wearing is a white sweatshirt, a pair of skinny blue jeans, and a silver letterman jacket. White sneakers will complete the look, although brown loafers are another option to try something different. Metallic details may energize the style.
Classic Custom Style
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A great way to steal attention is to go for this snazzy red and black varsity jacket with eye-catching details from Anything Chenille and match it with a red Henley and a pair of slim-fit charcoal grey jeans and black sneakers.
Street Style
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A plain black varsity jacket can be incredibly versatile and literally a weapon in your style arsenal. It goes with a t-shirt or button-down in any pattern and color and a pair of white jeans to achieve street style. To dress this up, wear white and black lace-up shoes. Use a silver chain and hat to give your appearance an additional edge.
Sporty Look
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You'll need pair of athletic shoes to complete your appearance with this red and grey varsity jacket from Anything Chenille. To keep the sporty look, it would be best if you wore a crew neck t-shirt in a light color. Remember to wear a baseball cap to round off the fit.
Final Verdict
One of the best sports-style outerwear is a varsity jacket. Similar to a wool coat, a varsity jacket can be worn in a relaxed, casual, urban, or dressy manner, depending on your style. With the style guide and definitions, we have hopefully answered your query “What is a varsity jacket” comprehensively.
